A mantra is (sometimes) a sacred word, sound or phrase that is believed by some to have psychological and spiritual powers. The Sanskrit word mantra - consists of the root man- "to think" (also in manas "mind") and the suffix - tra, with a literal translation of "instrument of thought."
According to Pandit Vamadeva Shastri (Dr. David Frawley), when carefully chosen and used silently, mantras are said to have the ability to help alter your subconscious impulses, habits, and afflictions. Mantras, when spoken or chanted, direct the healing power of Prana (life force energy) and, in traditional Vedic practices, can be used to energize and access spiritual states of consciousness.
It's that time of the year when the holidays start creeping up and before you know it, it's time to gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving, and then Christmas and New Year's.
For some, family gatherings are fun; for others, they can be stressful. Or maybe, it's a combination of both. Either way, learning how to use a mantra can help us to stay playful at heart during the holiday season.
How to Use Your Mantra:
There are many mantras one can choose from, as well as different ways to practice using your mantra. For the purpose of staying playful at family gatherings during the upcoming holiday season (or any gathering for that matter), please use the following mantra and method:
"I move through my day light-hearted and carefree, knowing all is well."
1. Before your family gathering, find a quite space and sit in a comfortable seat with your eyes closed.
- you can light candles, burn incense, infuse oils, or whatever suits you best to help find a quite space inside.
2. Begin to notice your breath. Grow taller with your inhale and feel the support below you as you exhale.
3. Take 1-5 minutes to repeat the mantra over and over while eyes are closed in your seated position.
- A mantra is fueled by the act of constant and consistent repetition. By repeating a thought or idea, it gains strength and energy, and anchors us to the present moment.
4. Repeat the mantra in the car if necessary.
5. Step outside, or into the bathroom, take a few breaths and repeat the mantra.
You can come back to your mantra anytime, anywhere. Whether you want to create positivity, health, wealth, self-love, balance, or peace, a mantra can be used during meditation, during an asana practice and during day-to-day life to help keep you aligned with the intention you want to create or manifest.
And maybe, just maybe, the mantra will help you to survive the coming craziness of family dynamics during the holiday season!
Happy Holidays!
Sources:
Wikipedia: Mantra
What is a Mantra, Tris Thorpe
Mantra 101, Nicole Chiarella